So I was hesitant to buy it because of all the negative reviews. but I've found that people with negative reviews use it incorrectly. However, to be fair, ANYWHERE in the instructions does not say how to properly use this embosser. Therefore, DO NOT leave protective plastic wrap on it when using, OTHERWISE IT MAY MELT. There is a screw (yes, with a sticker) on the transparent cover that needs to be unscrewed, and unscrew the transparent plastic cover BEFORE using. Leaving it on creates a fire hazard. I don't know why it's screwed on, other than to let you know the tip is hot, so you have to be careful with it - and don't touch other surfaces with it. I hope this helps because the embossing tool is a handy little tool that does a really good job of turning my embossing powder into beautiful highlights on my paper!